Lake Delancy East Campground
4.4313 reviewsLake Delancy East Campground
$6.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $6 per licensed motorized vehicle per day to $10 per day for general camping.
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About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of majestic oaks and towering pines, Lake Delancy East Campground invites adventurers to experience the untamed beauty of Florida's wilderness. This rustic retreat along the eastern shores of Lake Delancy offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where the ancient trees provide natural shade and the calls of wildlife remind visitors they're sharing this space with the forest's original inhabitants—including the area's notable black bear population.
Lake Delancy East Campground primarily offers primitive tent camping, with 29 designated sites. No RV accommodations or group camping facilities are explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil campground may be recent, the land itself tells an ancient story through its pristine ecosystems and the wildlife that has called this area home for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsDuring the camping season, visitors can expect the warm embrace of Florida's subtropical climate, where humid days give way to balmy evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. The lush environment that makes this area so verdant also attracts nature's smaller residents, so seasoned campers know to pack their insect repellent for those twilight hours when mosquitoes emerge to dance in the evening air.
ElevationPositioned at a gentle 50 feet above sea level, the campground rests on Florida's characteristic low-lying terrain, where subtle changes in elevation create diverse micro-habitats that support the area's rich biodiversity.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of Florida's native ecosystems unfolds around every campsite, where stately live oaks draped in Spanish moss stand alongside fragrant laurel oaks. The surrounding prairie ecosystem creates a dynamic landscape that changes with the seasons—during drier months, waves of tall prairie grass create a golden sea that conceals the lake's edge, while wetter periods reveal the shimmering waters and scenic marshlands that make this area a haven for wildlife watchers and nature photographers.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of the Ocala National Forest, Lake Delancy East occupies a unique position in Florida's prairie lake system. This fascinating geological setting features shallow lakes that expand and contract with the seasons, surrounded by expansive prairies where native grasses can tower overhead, creating an ever-changing landscape that showcases the dynamic relationship between water and land in Central Florida's distinctive ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly detail accessibility accommodations, but vault toilets at some points are wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeSites are described as expansive by users, with ample space for camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a natural and rustic setting, with no specific emphasis on privacy between sites.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the spur are recommended for tents only.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites are not ranked or rated as 'best,' but all are described as expansive with ample amenities (picnic tables, grills, fire pits).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days in a 30-day period
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are quite expansive and can accommodate large groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo overlapping loops and a spur designed primarily for tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from October to April, closed mid-March through September for certain sections.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable; sites are first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up basis; no reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not applicable as reservations are not supported.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including fishing, hiking, and exploring OHV trails. The Florida National Scenic Trail is accessible nearby, and the lake provides opportunities for boating and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Access to the 1,300-mile Florida National Scenic Trail is available from the adjacent Delancy West Campground. There are eight OHV trails nearby, the longest being 25 miles.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby locations. Catch species such as catfish, largemouth bass, sunfish, blue gill, and crappie (speckled perch). A Florida state fishing license is required.Boating
Boating is supported, with both powered and non-powered boats permitted. However, the lake's water levels can vary significantly, affecting accessibility.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include horned owls, pileated woodpeckers, and other native species. Bears, snakes, and alligators are also present, requiring caution.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is open seasonally from October to April.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are possible, but access to the lake may require navigating through heavy vegetation.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rigs or fire pits available at each site.
Hazards
General hazards'Heads up: Bears do frequent this area.' Caution is advised for alligators near water and frequent mosquito activity in warmer months.
Active alerts'The east half is closed mid-March through September.' Site is temporarily closed.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Salt Springs, FL.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season during open months October through April.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash cans are available throughout the campground to ensure safety and cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Lake Delancy's eastern shore. No direct water access but nearby marshes are available for fishing.
Common complaintsPotable water well pump marked as non-potable and subsequently demolished. 'Mosquitoes were rampant... bring your DEET.' Sand roads may be challenging for vehicles.
HostThere is no camp host on-site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsIn Salt Springs, FL, at the intersection of County Rt. 316 and State Rt. 19, take Rt. 19 north 5.1 miles to Delancy Lake sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Rts. 75/66 (sand) and go 1 mile to 'Y' intersection. Bear right and go 2.2 miles to campground on left.
Roads leading to the campground are sand-based and may be challenging for vehicles not equipped for off-road conditions.Nearby places
Salt Springs (5.3 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies and essentials can be accessed at Salt Springs, FL, about 5.3 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
13 reviews
Lake Delancy East Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its natural beauty and affordability, but the lack of basic amenities such as potable water and flush toilets is a common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the expansive camping sites, scenic views, and accessibility to trails and recreational activities. "Pretty nice place, with absolutely no shortage of picnic tables," mentioned...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Many users express dissatisfaction with the lack of potable water and the general maintenance of facilities. "The potable water well has been marked as non-potable and subsequently demolished," noted...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of potable water and insect repellent. Be prepared for encounters with wildlife such as bears, snakes, and alligators.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Warm months bring an increase in mosquitoes, so insect repellent is highly recommended. Seasonal closures from mid-March to September on the east side are noted by some reviewers.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"It's a beautiful place to stay at. I would be extremely grateful if the well water pump be reinstalled." "Pretty cool camping spot. Four-wheeler trails. Grills. Public restroom that is really just...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No detailed reviews were provided for specific sites.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit reviews focused on accessibility experiences.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but precautions are advised due to the presence of wildlife such as alligators.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025